What Materials, Equipment and Supplies Does One Need to Get Certified for CPR?
Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is a lifesaving skill that rewarding to know and to teach. Many individuals take a CPR course as part of a job requirement. However, you are most likely to help someone you spend a lot of time with and will be with if that person is not feeling well. This includes family, friends and coworkers. Becoming certified in CPR is a proactive way to prepare for when family and friends need help in an emergency.
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Certified Training and Equipment Suppliers
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There are two primary sources of certified CPR training. These are the American Red Cross (ARC) and the American Heart Association (AHA). Every few years members of these groups, along with members of the medical community, review and update CPR teaching guidelines. Both groups base their training programs on the resulting guidelines. Individuals seeking training in CPR can contact local offices of either organization to learn about training options. There are online options, too. However, individuals investigating this option for a job or program should check with their employers to verify this training method meets the necessary requirements. Both organizations supply recommended equipment for performing CPR. Also, local pharmacies often carry CPR supplies.
CPR Equipment
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There are no requirements for an individual performing CPR to have any specialized equipment. In-class training includes working with others and working with a manikin. A manikin requires the use of a face shield provided by the training program. A manikin face shield is a plastic sheet with a gauze-covered opening in the center. The gauze, placed over the manikin's mouth, allows air to move in and out of the manikin from the CPR student. In a real emergency, first aid providers should use a breathing barrier when performing CPR. Wearing disposable gloves is another important step to perform first aid safely. Proper use of breathing barriers and gloves help to prevent transmission of disease.
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Automated External Defibrillators
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The use and availability of automated external defibrillators (AED) has increased over the past decade. While it is not mandatory for a location to have an AED available, they are in areas where large groups of individuals congregate, such as shopping malls, sporting arenas, gyms or government buildings. CPR certification does not guarantee training in the use of an AED. However, according to the both the ARC and the AHA, AED use is an important part of the chain of survival. A person taking CPR training needs a course that includes AED training. Once trained, you can add use of an AED, if available, when performing lifesaving CPR on an ill or injured person.
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References
- Photo Credit cpr head to head image by paul mitchell from Fotolia.com
